the same is true of my colleagues, senator isakson, my neighbor in the russell office building, a gentleman in every way. he has been magnificent to work with as well. and of course my colleague, senator murkowski from alaska who has made some great contributions to the senate, with her consensus-billing and dedication and exceptio exceptil ability. i certainly enjoyed working with them and getting to know them. and to all of my senate colleagues past and present, this chamber would simply be another room with fancy walls, without the lifeblood of passionate service and dedication you bring to this institution and our nation. we all have our stories about where we came from, about what shaped our values and aspirations. and why we care so much about public service as a vehicle for securing for others the american dream, for all who seek to embrace it. in my instance, when my own legislative journey commenced when i was elected to fill my late-husband's seat in the maine house of representatives, i felt then, as i have throughout my career, that our role as public servants, above all else, i